Understanding the process of storytelling can seem daunting, especially if you’ve never made a film before. Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a filmmaker or simply curious about creating documentaries, here’s a simplified overview of the essential steps involved. Consider this your beginner’s roadmap to navigating the intricate world of filmmaking. Here are 4 guides on the art of filmmaking and telling better stories.
1. Follow the Story
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- Whether it’s a person, an idea, or an event, the story is propelled forward by the pursuit of something meaningful. Just like in a good book or movie, there’s someone or something driving the story forward. For example, in the documentary “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”, the character of Mr. Rogers is the heart of the story. The filmmaker follows his journey of spreading kindness and understanding, which keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.
2. Keep Things Interesting with Mystery
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- It’s like telling a great mystery story. You don’t reveal everything right away; you give hints and clues to keep people guessing. Uncertainty is your ally, not your foe, in documentary filmmaking. It’s the element that keeps viewers engaged, urging them to unravel the mystery you present. In the documentary “Making a Murderer,” filmmakers slowly uncover new information about a crime, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. By revealing details little by little, they build suspense and make people want to know what happens next.
1. Follow the Story
-
- Whether it’s a person, an idea, or an event, the story is propelled forward by the pursuit of something meaningful. Just like in a good book or movie, there’s someone or something driving the story forward. For example, in the documentary “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”, the character of Mr. Rogers is the heart of the story. The filmmaker follows his journey of spreading kindness and understanding, which keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.
2. Keep Things Interesting with Mystery
-
- It’s like telling a great mystery story. You don’t reveal everything right away; you give hints and clues to keep people guessing. Uncertainty is your ally, not your foe, in documentary filmmaking. It’s the element that keeps viewers engaged, urging them to unravel the mystery you present. In the documentary “Making a Murderer,” filmmakers slowly uncover new information about a crime, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. By revealing details little by little, they build suspense and make people want to know what happens next.
2. Plan Your Shots Carefully
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- Before you start filming, think about what each scene needs to accomplish. Let’s say you’re filming a scene about a rescue mission in a wildlife documentary. You might want to show the tension and danger by using close-up shots of the animals, as well as wide shots to capture the vastness of the landscape. Each shot should serve a purpose and help tell the story in a visual way.
3. Understand Your Characters
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- Characters are the heart of any documentary. Take the time to really get to know them – their hopes, dreams, and struggles. In the documentary “RBG,” filmmakers explore the life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, showing not only her achievements but also her personal challenges and passions. By understanding what drives your characters, you can capture their essence on camera and create a compelling story that resonates with viewers.
In conclusion, learning from filmmaking can help businesses tell better stories, engage their audience, communicate visually, understand customers, and manage projects effectively. By applying these lessons, businesses can improve their marketing, connect with customers, and achieve their goals more efficiently.